Spirited fundraiser brings in more than $190K

About 2,100 guests recently packed the Museum of Discovery and Science's 18th annual Wine, Spirits and Culinary Celebration, raising more than $190,000 for the Fort Lauderdale facility.

"This year was one of our best," said Ken Stiles, executive vice president of the Stiles Corp. and event co-chairman for the third year. "… It seemed to bring out many first-time attendees, which is great for bringing awareness of all the museum has to offer. "

Last year, the museum completed an expansion that included a 34,000-square-foot EcoDiscovery Center. The increased space has allowed for more restaurants, attendees and the addition of spirits and craft beer to the annual fundraiser, said museum spokeswoman Marlene Janetos.

"This year's Wine, Spirits and Culinary Celebration was the most successful ever … [with] 45 fabulous restaurants, including many of the best in South Florida," Janetos said.

The event also featured a silent auction, a VIP martini reception, a culinary demonstration and more.

The museum's mission is to provide experiential pathways to lifelong learning in science for children and adults through exhibits, programs and films, according to its website.

A new addition this year came from Florida Power & Light, which donated 99 solar panels as well as an accompanying solar energy exhibit, Janetos said.

The solar panels serve as a learning tool for visitors and as an alternative energy source for the museum, she said. The new solar exhibit features a monitor that shows the solar energy being produced at the museum and an interactive touch screen. Visitors will also have the chance to race miniature cars that run on solar power, Janetos said.

Future expansion plans include a Science Park, slated to open in 2015 with construction planning to start next year. The museum is currently trying to raise the $7.5 million needed for the capital campaign, Janetos said.

The Science Park, which will be off of Broward Boulevard, will feature a discovery exhibit geared toward 8- to 13-year-olds.